IBD: addressing the root causes of inflammation and gut dysfunction
Living with IBD can be unpredictable, affecting digestion, energy, and overall well-being. The functional medicine approach goes beyond symptom management to achieve long-term relief and control of your health.
Natural treatment for IBD
Looking to find out about IBD natural treatment options? This page covers:
At Melbourne Functional Medicine, our practitioners will provide a personalised natural IBD treatment that supports you holistically, so you can feel happy in your body again.
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Understanding your condition
IBD is a broad term describing a painful, chronic inflammation of the bowels, usually relapsing in nature. As an autoimmune condition, it is the body’s own reaction to the lining of the intestinal tract, and an altered composition of gut microbiome species which create this inflammatory response.
The two most common presentations of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While ulcerative colitis is restricted to the colon and rectum, Crohn’s can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, and primarily occurs in the ileum. Furthermore, ulcerative colitis is limited to the mucosa and submucosa, whereas Crohn’s disease extends into all three mucosal layers.
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
Understanding your condition
IBD is a broad term describing a painful, chronic inflammation of the bowels, usually relapsing in nature. As an autoimmune condition, it is the body’s own reaction to the lining of the intestinal tract, and an altered composition of gut microbiome species which create this inflammatory response.
The two most common presentations of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While ulcerative colitis is restricted to the colon and rectum, Crohn’s can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, and primarily occurs in the ileum. Furthermore, ulcerative colitis is limited to the mucosa and submucosa, whereas Crohn’s disease extends into all three mucosal layers.
Providing a holistic treatment for IBD
Whilst primarily autoimmune gut conditions, many factors outside the gut contribute to the inflammation, severity and triggers which can be addressed using the functional medicine approach. Our practitioners have a holistic understanding of health and the body, and will seek to detect and address your particular triggers and underlying causes contributing to IBD. A functional medicine approach to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis includes a truly personalised treatment plan designed to help you be as healthy as you can be.
IBD symptoms
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are both forms of IBD, however their symptoms whilst similar, are distinct from one another by their location and timing. Distinguishing between these conditions requires detailed case taking and functional testing and will direct the treatment strategy.
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis usually presents as continuous areas of inflammation of the lining of the colon. The signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis occur due to the colon’s inability to absorb water due to being severely ulcerated and inflamed. Relapsing, and episodic in nature, symptoms persist for days, weeks, or even months. People with ulcerative colitis commonly experience:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Cramps – usually relieved with defecation
- Diarrhoea
- Blood tinged stool
- Stringy mucoid material
- Both urgency and inability to pass stool
- Weight loss due to decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Joint pain
Ulcerative colitis may also lead to some systemic health complications including:
- Sores in the mouth and skin
- Osteoporosis
- Painful and swollen joints
- Kidney stones
- Itchy and red eyes
Crohn’s disease
By comparison, Crohn’s disease presents as inflamed patches between healthy sections of intestine. People with Crohn’s disease may experience variable signs and symptoms with intermittent attacks and asymptomatic periods lasting weeks to months. Common symptoms can include:
- Right lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- Bloody diarrhoea
- Weight loss
- Mucous in stool
While more severe indications are:
- Intestinal obstruction
- Fibrosing strictures
- Peritoneal abscess
- Perforations
- Fistula
- Colon cancer
Reduce your autoimmune risk, naturally
IBD root causes and contributing factors
Primarily inflammatory bowel diseases are considered idiopathic inflammatory conditions, meaning there are no specific identified causes. However, links have been drawn with some common underlying factors:
Environmental triggers: IBD has multiple triggers that may cause inflammation and alter the gut’s normal flora, causing it to flare. Some known triggers include:
- Smoking
- Inflammatory diet – sugar, gluten, dairy and processed foods
- Air pollution
- Stress and anxiety
- Medications like NSAIDs, antibiotics, and reflux medications
- Oral contraceptive pill
- Postmenopausal hormonal therapy
- Hypoxia at high altitude
- Not being breastfed during infancy
Genetics: Evidence suggests an increased risk of IBD among people with an affected family member by 4 to 8 times, even higher in identical twins.
Epithelial defects: The symptoms of IBD are seen as a result of multiple defects in linings of vessels, organs, and digestive system, called epithelial cells. The most dominating feature is dysfunction of the tight junction barriers or ‘leaky gut syndrome’, resulting in increasing susceptibility to IBD triggers and food intolerances.
Other contributing factors to IBD
Mucosal immune response: The immune system’s role in increasing the chances of IBD is well known. The T helper cells, typically Th17 cells, play an active role in Crohn’s disease.
Parasitic or bacterial infections: Bacteria and yeast can flourish in the deep ulcers and pockets that occur in IBD. These infections, such as SIBO, along with parasitic infestations, may drive and aggravate IBD.
IBD treatment – conventional treatments
Currently, no conventional treatments can completely cure IBD. Instead, the conventional medicine approach to IBD aims to manage the condition and suppress symptoms. This may include the use of:
- Immunomodulators – to prevent the immune system from activating and flaring up the reaction
- Corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system.
- Aminosalicylates – to reduce intestinal irritation
- Antibiotics – to treat bacterial overgrowth
Despite this range of options there are potentially harmful side effects such as blood, bone, liver, and kidney dysfunction and malignant melanoma. Conventional methods of treating IBD have a high failure rate resulting in increased incidence and severity of disease with long-term complications.
As a result, many people are now turning to a functional medicine approach to IBD for lasting relief.
Left untreated/ineffectively treated, Crohn’s disease can lead to further complications outside the gut including:
- Malnutrition/poor absorption: Iron, Vitamin A, B12 and folate deficiencies
- Bones & Joints: Osteoporosis, osteomalacia and osteopenia, arthritis
- Eyes: Dry eyes, episcleritis, keratopathy, uveitis
- Kidneys: Kidney stones, glomerulonephritis
- Liver: Fatty liver disease, hepatitis, gallstones
- Skin: a range of seemingly unrelated skin conditions
Functional testing considerations for IBD
In an IBD alternative treatment strategy there are a range of functional tests that will help identify the root causes and triggers of your symptoms, they may include:
- Specific blood tests
- Microbiome & stool testing
- Digestive function and nutrient absorption
- Markers of inflammation, IBD, SIBO or leaky gut
- Pathogenic parasites
- Food sensitivities
IBD natural treatment – the functional medicine approach to Crohn’s disease & ulcerative colitis
At Melbourne Functional Medicine, practitioners focus on identifying and addressing the individual factors contributing to each person’s inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis. An IBD natural treatment is tailored to the person, rather than the symptoms, and is informed by the latest science.
In clinical trials, herbal medicines and natural products used in an IBD natural treatment approach to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis demonstrated efficacy in improving symptoms and health outcomes by;
- Maintenance of integrity of the intestinal lining
- Regulation of the innate immune system
- Modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, and
- Inhibition of TNF-a activity, a protein which triggers inflammation
Our practitioners achieve these results with a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications (including removing aggravating foods and increasing beneficial nutrients) gut health support, natural anti-inflammatories and herbal medicines. Just some of the proven natural remedies for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease include:
- Curcumin: This potent extract of turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, with studies demonstrating it as a safe and effective therapy for maintaining remission of ulcerative colitis
- Saffron: Saffron has been found to reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis and reduce inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to prevent recurrence
- Probiotics: Reduced microbial diversity is associated with increased rates of IBD. Probiotics, specifically Bifidobacterium spp. have consequently shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms of IBD by restoring a healthy microbiome
- Boswellia serrata: A potent anti-inflammatory found to restore gastrointestinal linings and improve immune response
- Vagus nerve stimulation: Low vagal tone has a pro-inflammatory role in disease development, and studies have shown stimulation of the vagus nerve can improve active Crohn’s disease
- CBD & medicinal cannabis: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of medicinal cannabis are increasingly used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Eliminating processed foods/inflammatory bowel disease diet: Diets containing processed foods including soft drinks, refined sweetened foods, salty snacks and processed meats are associated with higher rates of IBD. An IBD natural treatment diet is high in anti-inflammatory foods, vitamins, minerals and nutrients for restoration of healthy linings has been shown to improve the onset and severity of symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
- Mindfulness and healthy lifestyle changes: IBD can be triggered or aggravated by inflammation associated with obesity, high stress levels, lack of sleep, and lifestyle choices. Mindfulness practices and healthy lifestyle changes can support both physical and psychological wellbeing in people with IBD, including yoga, breathing, movement and meditation
Together with our functional medicine practitioners, our health coaches will help provide the support you need to be successful in achieving your health goals.
Case study
See how our approach helps our patients achieve better health and richer lives.
Suzannah’s health journey began early in life, having been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just 10 years old. Over the years, she endured multiple intestinal obstructions and, in 2021, underwent major surgery to remove her large bowel. While the surgery addressed structural complications, it marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with persistent fatigue, chronic sinus issues, and cognitive symptoms such as brain fog.
Read Suzannah’s story by hitting the button below.
Suzannah’s story
Suzannah’s health journey began early in life, having been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just 10 years old. Over the years, she endured multiple intestinal obstructions and, in 2021, underwent major surgery to remove her large bowel. While the surgery addressed structural complications, it marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with persistent fatigue, chronic sinus issues, and cognitive symptoms such as brain fog.
Despite taking proactive steps to support her recovery, Suzannah felt stuck – physically depleted and emotionally overwhelmed. Long-standing workplace trauma and deep-seated self-doubt further eroded her confidence in her body’s ability to heal. The cumulative weight of chronic illness, surgery, and emotional distress was affecting her daily life and impeding her plans for the future, including starting a family.
Seeking a more comprehensive and compassionate path forward, Suzannah turned to Melbourne Functional Medicine. She was ready to go beyond symptom management to uncover the deeper root causes of her challenges and begin restoring her vitality through a truly integrative, personalised approach.
An in-depth analysis of the problem
To understand the full picture, her functional medicine practitioner initiated a thorough investigation using comprehensive functional pathology testing. This included assessments of sex and adrenal hormones, thyroid function, key nutrients such as B12, iron, and vitamin D, and systemic inflammatory markers. These investigations were critical in evaluating how her body was functioning post-surgery and whether biochemical imbalances were contributing to her ongoing symptoms.
The results revealed low cortisol output and impaired thyroid hormone conversion – clear signs of chronic physiological stress. Several nutrient levels were suboptimal, impacting energy production and mental clarity. Elevated inflammatory markers further indicated her body was operating in a prolonged state of stress and repair.
When these findings were viewed in the context of Suzannah’s psychological history – marked by past trauma and internalised self-doubt – it became evident that her physical and emotional health were closely intertwined. This deepened the need for a personalised treatment plan that addressed the root causes from both biological and behavioural perspectives.
Implementing the solution
A personalised protocol was created by Suzannah’s practitioner to support her physical recovery. This included targeted nutritional interventions to reduce systemic inflammation and support nutrient repletion. Her diet was adjusted to eliminate known triggers and include easily digestible proteins to reduce the burden on her digestive system.
To address hormonal imbalances and support cognitive function, sleep hygiene practices were introduced. Sleep quickly emerged as one of Suzannah’s most critical pillars for healing – when it was compromised, so was her energy, mood, and resilience. As sleep quality improved, so too did her ability to focus, maintain consistent energy throughout the day, and engage more positively in her relationships.
At the same time, health coaching played a pivotal role in her emotional recovery. In regular coaching sessions, Suzannah explored the emotional patterns that had built up over years of illness and trauma. With compassionate guidance, she began to reframe limiting beliefs, practice self-compassion, and rebuild trust in her body’s ability to heal. Tools such as journaling, mindfulness, and the “bullseye” model helped her reassess her relationship dynamics and establish healthy boundaries. Each session began with centring breathwork, creating space for reflection and intention.
Physical activity was gently reintroduced with support from a personal trainer, focusing on managing neck pain and gradually rebuilding strength. Suzannah also adopted calming techniques like visualisation to manage anxiety and remain grounded. The collaborative approach between her practitioner and coach ensured that her physical, mental, and emotional needs were addressed in tandem, making the healing process more sustainable and empowering.
Achieving an incredible result
Over time, Suzannah began to experience profound improvements across all dimensions of her health. Her brain fog cleared, energy levels stabilised, and sleep became more restful and restorative. Emotionally, she developed greater resilience and a renewed sense of self-worth. These internal shifts allowed her to reconnect with her goals and move forward with confidence in both her personal and professional life.
One of the most transformative moments came when Suzannah recognised the role of self-compassion in her healing. Letting go of long-held guilt and grief opened the door to deeper emotional freedom and healthier relationships.
She now says: “I can stay still long enough to do my favourite activity – to read a book. That started happening once I started recovering.”
Suzannah’s story is a powerful example of how a holistic patient-centred approach – rooted in both functional medicine and health coaching – can lead to meaningful, lasting transformation. By addressing the physiological and emotional aspects of health as inseparable, her care team helped her move from survival to thriving.
Ready for a personalised, natural functional medicine treatment?
Our unique model of care was designed with you in mind. Find out how, then book a call today
Frequently
Asked
Questions
What is the difference between IBD and IBS?
Inflammatory bowel disease is an autoimmune disease causing recurrent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas irritable bowel syndrome is a range of symptoms that can occur due to disruption to the microbiome.
Functional testing by our practitioners can determine which of these conditions you are experiencing and design a natural treatment plan for your IBD or IBS.
How does functional medicine treat inflammatory bowel disease? What are the alternative IBD treatment options?
The functional medicine approach uses IBD natural treatment strategies for Crohn’s disease.
Ulcerative colitis alternative treatments use similar methods, with both based on the latest scientific studies.
An inflammatory bowel disease diet, herbal medicines, natural supplements, specific probiotic and prebiotics and lifestyle changes are all part of the latest treatment strategies for both conditions, but most importantly treating you as a whole being.
Establishing your particular underlying causes will dictate the treatment strategy. No two people are alike, but in general treatment aims would likely include:
- reducing your exposure to triggers
- lowering inflammation to the whole body
- improving your body’s immune response
- increasing the body’s resources available to restore and prevent flare-ups
- and increasing diversity and make-up of your microbiome
What is the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease?
Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract.
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the entire gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, and can involve the full thickness of the intestinal wall.
Ulcerative colitis generally affects only the mucosal lining of the intestinal wall, and is usually located in the large intestine and rectum.
Ulcerative colitis alternative treatment options are best to be tailored to you, based on the root causes and your symptom picture.
Is Crohn’s disease hereditary?
Yes, it can be. Having a close family member who has Crohn’s increases the likelihood of developing it. However, other non-genetic causes like environmental toxin exposure e.g. smoking, pesticides, and plasticisers, can cause damage to the mucosal lining triggering an immune response underlying the development of Crohn’s.
Some commonly used pharmaceutical medications may also contribute to development of Crohn’s disease, such as the oral contraceptive pill and reflux medicines (such as Nexium, or Somac).
Can I treat Crohn’s disease naturally?
Many people seeking a natural, alternative treatment to Crohn’s benefit from a holistic treatment plan that addresses their entire body and overall health. Crohn’s disease can be treated and managed effectively using the functional medicine approach. Dietary change, an inflammatory bowel disease diet, lifestyle changes, specific probiotics and nutritional supplements can all contribute to supporting a healthy immune response within the gastrointestinal tract.
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